Since its launch in 1930, the FIFA World Cup had grown in stature to become clearly the world’s senior international football tournament.

After the Jules Rimet Trophy was stolen while on display in London, the hosts triumphed again when it was recovered by a dog called Pickles under a bush in south London a few days later.

Pele was again battered, this time by Bulgaria and Portugal as Brazil’s bid for a third consecutive title faltered. England beat West Germany 4-2 after extra time in a thrilling final at Wembley, when Geoff Hurst made history with a hat-trick, including the most controversial goal ever scored. Did the ball really cross the line after bouncing down from the crossbar? The debate still rages.

Among those qualifying for the second round were the North Koreans, who surprised everybody by knocking out the Italians and then taking a 3-0 lead over the Portuguese in the tournament’s most dazzling match. Portugal fought back and eventually triumphed (5-3), with Eusebio supplying four of the goals.

The rest of the tournament, however, failed to maintain this momentum. The English eventually won the title and Captain Bobby Moore led this team to the royal box to receive the trophy from Queen Elizabeth II.